Transport for London has rejected calls for bleed control kits to be installed at major London bus stations and on selected bus routes.
The proposal was backed by London Assembly members earlier this year, who called for TfL to work with the London Ambulance Service to improve access to emergency bleed control equipment across the capital’s transport network.
The decision comes amid continuing concern about serious violence and safety across London’s public transport network.
Bleed control kits are designed to help control severe bleeding from serious injuries, including stab wounds, before emergency services arrive.
The London Assembly motion called for kits to be placed at major bus stations and on selected routes in areas affected by serious violence. It also called for training to be offered to bus drivers and other frontline transport workers.
TfL cites NHS guidance
TfL Commissioner Andy Lord has rejected the proposal, saying the transport authority is following NHS advice.
TfL said current NHS guidance states that standard first aid kits are considered sufficient for most bleeding wounds, and that the most effective response from bystanders is to apply continuous direct pressure and call 999 immediately.
Concerns were also raised about the use of specialist equipment such as tourniquets, which can cause harm if used incorrectly.
TfL said all staffed stations and staffed bus stations already have first aid kits available.
The transport authority said its position would remain under review if NHS guidance changes.
Campaigners criticise decision
The decision has been criticised by campaigners and London Assembly members who backed calls for wider access to bleed control kits.
Dr Lynne Baird MBE, founder of the Daniel Baird Foundation, has argued that bleed kits are simple to use and can provide vital support before paramedics arrive. Her campaign was launched after her son Daniel was fatally stabbed in 2017.
Elly Baker, the Labour London Assembly Member who proposed the motion, said she was disappointed by TfL’s response.
The proposal had also been linked to concerns raised by the London Youth Assembly about safety on the transport network.
Bus network safety concerns
The debate comes amid continuing concern about safety on London’s bus network. The issue is likely to remain sensitive for bus workers and passengers following a number of recent serious incidents across the capital.
London Bus Forums has recently reported on several serious incidents involving bus workers, including attacks on bus drivers.
Supporters of bleed kits argue they could provide potentially life-saving support during the crucial minutes before emergency services arrive.
However, TfL has maintained that it will continue to follow NHS guidance and keep the matter under review.
More updates can be found in our Transport for London news section.
